In a year that has brought us deeply regressive policies and a near return to pre-Civil Rights United States, we are looking for sheroes like Cardi B and Amara to cheer on and ride hard for. The general comments about both “cultural appropriation” and “Blackface” are indicative of a desire for authenticity that betrays a greater anxiety and need to protect a blackness that is deeply under siege.

Helado Negro’s stand out came recently with the release of his Private Energy’s single, “Young Latin and Proud”. The first time I heard the track, I remember feeling moved not only by the message— one I didn’t even know I needed— but also by the familiarity of his voice. This was for me.

Luna Olavarria Gallegoes sat down with Madame Vacile, the Afro-Colombian musician fusing African rhythms. They talk about afrocolombianidad identity, roots, and the history and art of DJ'ing during her first trip to New York City.

La Liga had a chance to talk to Princess Nokia after her performance and she continued to emphasize healing, opening up to us about the identities that she holds and the experiences that have influenced her life and work, particularly her music and her feminism

Xenia Rubinos previewed some new songs from her upcoming album for Anti Records on March 11th at The Hall at MP in Brooklyn, and also added in some gems from her debut Magic Trix (2013) like “Cherry Tree” and “Hair Receding”.